The Arusha Call

Abstract

For the Protestant churches, the 20th century wrote a story of divergence so far as missiological understanding is concerned. Mid-century tensions eventually led to a split into two camps, usually described as “Ecumenical” and “Evangelical.” This is a division that has run deep and been definitive for identity, association, theology, and practice in many different contexts around the world. This article argues that, by contrast, the 21st century has seen a remarkable missiological convergence as the two sides in the long-running debate have sought to attend to each other’s concerns. This trend is evidenced by reference to significant conferences and documents, leading up to the World Council of Churches Conference on World Mission and Evangelism, held in Arusha, Tanzania, in March 2018. Examination of the “Arusha Call to Discipleship” issued by the conference reveals the extent of the convergence now taking place while also exposing its limitations. Even while acknowledging serious remaining challenges, it can be concluded that the Arusha Call is a signal of missiological convergence.